Fourth-year student gets a taste of Ireland at the Global Undergraduate Awards
Nicole Agyenim-Boateng (foreground, second from left) celebrates with fellow entrants at the 2023 Global Undergraduate Awards in Dublin, Ireland. Photo: Matthew Rose-Nel
What started as a typical writing assignment for Nicole Agyenim-Boateng turned into an exciting whirlwind expedition to Dublin, Ireland.
After hearing about the Global Undergraduate Awards (external link) through a faculty newsletter, the fourth-year child and youth care student decided to give it a go and entered her paper into the competition. Thousands of submissions are received each year from all over the world and judged by a panel of international academics and industry leaders.
Nicole’s paper ranked in the top 10% of submissions in her category — earning her recognition as a Highly Commended entrant and the chance to attend the Global Summit and awards ceremony in November. She recently sat down to reflect on her five-day trip and its impact on her academically and personally.
What was it like attending the UA Global Summit?
The highlight of the trip was, of course, receiving the award. Highly Commended entrants, like myself, and Regional Winners were honoured one day, and the Global Winners were presented with gold medals during the formal gala. But the trip included more than just the ceremony. We also got to hear presentations from the global winners as well as keynote speakers which touched upon important topics facing undergraduate students. Each day, we also went on a walking tour and visits to other facilities.
Nicole’s paper: shortlisted in the top 10%
- Title: "The link between lifestyle, well-being domains, and lived experiences: A 14-day self-study" (external link)
- Category: Sociology & Social Policy
- Assignment: Collect, map and analyze quantitative data and qualitative data
- Supervisor: Professor Julian Hasford
After collecting 14 days’ worth of self-reported data, Nicole wanted to see if there was any negative or positive correlation between her optimism, happiness and lived experiences. Her paper looked at two questions: (1) how her sleep quality impacted daily physical activity, diet quality and perceived stress; and (2) whether her daily optimism and happiness rating correlated positively with the lived experiences she recorded.
Did you do any touring in Ireland?
Yes! Some fun sightseeing was actually built into the trip. But we also had free time for ourselves. I went with friends to check out some nature spots. Others went sightseeing in the city. I also had the chance to experience the nightlife in Dublin. On the last day, there was a fun informal networking event where I got most people to come out and enjoy one last night of fun.
How did going abroad for this experience benefit you?
I enjoyed getting away from the hustle and bustle of academic life and meeting so many amazing, smart people. I never would’ve thought that there’d be so many new friends just waiting to be discovered as I traveled to a different country. I met so many wonderful people and made connections that I hope will last a lifetime. I found myself connecting with people on a deeper level. It was fascinating listening to different perspectives on topics that I had never considered before. I strengthened my intelligence academically in new ways and gained confidence that I’m going down the right path. I also enjoyed trying things that I never thought I’d ever do — such as going solo to a restaurant or visiting a museum on my own.
Why do you feel students should try out these awards?
The Global Undergraduate Awards competition is a win-win for students. If you’ve already done the hard part of writing a paper or assignment, this is your chance to experience real-world appreciation. It’s an amazing program where you get to see a different part of the world and honestly connect with some of the most amazing people you could ever meet!
Did you enjoy this story? Do you have one of your own to share? (google form) Let us know (external link) .